Highbrow Magazine - Wes Anderson https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/wes-anderson en ‘Asteroid City’ Delivers Wit and Charm but Nothing New https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/24032-asteroid-city-delivers-wit-and-charm-nothing-new <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Mon, 07/03/2023 - 13:27</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1asteroidfilm.jpg?itok=RAoy_wy-"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1asteroidfilm.jpg?itok=RAoy_wy-" width="480" height="270" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Wes Anderson has been making Wes Anderson movies for a long time now and some might say he’s the best at it. While it does seem like his movies are built on top of the same skeletal structure, they also manage to have a certain charm, thanks to their dialogue style and quirky, yet often subdued, characters. “Asteroid City” is another entry into Anderson’s growing catalogue and it’s a film that can feel like the result of drawing with a stencil or baking with cookie-cutters and it’s hard to tell how much of that is intentional or just the filmmaker doing what he always does.</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">The framing device for this movie is that “Asteroid City” is a play taking place in a desert town of the same name. A convention is being held there that’s the equivalent of a school science fair where young geniuses bring their creations to be judged by government officials. The whole 1950s aesthetic works well and the bright colors of clothes and cars clashing with the desert backdrop create an interesting visual identity. The meta storytelling eventually pays off, but for the first two acts of the film, the cuts back to Bryan Cranston as the host and other cutaway scenes are too much of a diversion for their own good. Generally, there are a few scenes that seem like they’re just there so that Anderson can indulge in his trademark whimsy, yet the routine is often lacking in the clever humor that makes it work in the film's better scenes.</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/2asteroidfilm.jpg" style="height:281px; width:500px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">While the entire cast does a good job, Scarlett Johansson and Jason Schwartzman stand out above the rest. Their subdued yet troubled characters are the main source of humor throughout the film and while their romance doesn’t exactly hit its mark, they still have good chemistry. The biggest problem with the characters is that Anderson doesn’t write them in a way that feels fresh. That’s not to say that their dialogue is predictable because it can be pretty random, but rather they all appear like the stereotypical characters that one would expect from a Wes Anderson movie.</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">While the film deals with themes of grief, government suppression, and love, it’s the theme of moving on that is most interesting. The freight train that moves through town does a good job of symbolizing the sometimes grim reality of life. You move forward, pick up baggage along the way, and even though there are moments that make you wish you could stop time, you have to keep going. Through death and uncertainty and even amidst chaos and unexplainable events, our only real option is to keep going and most of us do so while only capable of hoping for the best.</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/3asteroidfilm.jpg" style="height:366px; width:650px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">“Asteroid City” is not Wes Anderson’s best or worst movie. It’s not the beginning of a new chapter in his filmmaking, nor is it the end of an era. It’s another classic Anderson film, which is probably what his fans want, even if it might not win over those who may have unfortunately written him off already.</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Author Bio:</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong> <em>Ulises Duenas is a senior writer at</em> Highbrow Magazine.</strong></span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>For Highbrow Magazine</strong></span></span></p> <p> </p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/asteroid-city" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">asteroid city</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson-films" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wes anderson films</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/new-movies" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">new movies</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/scarlett-johansson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">scarlett johansson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/jason-schwartzman" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">jason schwartzman</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Ulises Duenas</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">In Slider</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-videos field-type-video-embed-field field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <div class="embedded-video"> <div class="player"> <iframe class="" width="640" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/9FXCSXuGTF4?width%3D640%26amp%3Bheight%3D360%26amp%3Bautoplay%3D0%26amp%3Bvq%3Dlarge%26amp%3Brel%3D0%26amp%3Bcontrols%3D1%26amp%3Bautohide%3D2%26amp%3Bshowinfo%3D1%26amp%3Bmodestbranding%3D0%26amp%3Btheme%3Ddark%26amp%3Biv_load_policy%3D1%26amp%3Bwmode%3Dopaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div> </div> </div></div></div> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 17:27:20 +0000 tara 11951 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/24032-asteroid-city-delivers-wit-and-charm-nothing-new#comments A Salute to Hollywood’s Underrated Filmmakers and Actors https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/21724-salute-hollywood-s-underrated-filmmakers-and-actors <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Fri, 10/14/2022 - 21:07</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1filmmakers.jpg?itok=dK6Xn2n-"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1filmmakers.jpg?itok=dK6Xn2n-" width="323" height="480" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">There is an interesting phenomenon in art where the most critically acclaimed creators often fail to reach the broadest commercial audiences. Some of this can be explained by “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandwagon_effect" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">the bandwagon effect</a>,” a psychological phenomenon where people embrace a fad or trend primarily because others are doing so. While the bandwagon theory might explain why EVERYONE seems to know and love The Rock, it doesn’t explain why an extraordinary number of exceptional artists never convince audiences or producers of their full potential. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">In this article, we’ll look at 10 filmmakers who – by my estimation – are underrated. An article like this is, of course, fraught with difficulty because my definition of “underrated” may differ from that of readers. So, we’ll start by defining terms. We aren’t talking no-names who have been universally ignored by fans, critics and peers. Rather, this list is populated by artists who are often celebrated in critical circles, but have not received the widespread recognition they deserve. We will also note upfront that this list is far from exhaustive. There are hundreds of additional names that could populate a story like this because – sadly – great art often goes unrecognized at the multiplex. In the interest of changing this, I encourage you to populate our comments section with your picks. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Terrence Malick</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Although writer-director-producer Terence Malick is an arthouse darling, it’s borderline criminal that one of the most thoughtful storytellers in cinematic history is largely unknown. Case in point: Malick’s last feature film, the World War II drama <em>A Hidden Life</em>, <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt5827916/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">opened with just over $50,000 and grossed less than $2 million in the United States</a>. In the meantime, <em>Jumanji:</em> <em>The Next Level</em> – also released in 2019 – <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt7975244/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">collected more than $320 million at the domestic box office</a>.  </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">One needn’t love everything Malick has made. His pictures can be slow because he acknowledges that film is a visual medium, and some of his best works – <em>The New World</em> (2005), <em>The Thin Red Line</em> (1998), <em>Days of Heaven</em> (1978) – play more like visual poetry than a traditional motion picture narrative. Even when his work falters, however, his ambition is obvious. Malick’s artistic passion is something we see with other directors who could have easily made this list – Darren Aronofsky, David Lynch, Jim Jarmusch – and this commitment to pushing boundaries is what film lovers deserve.  </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/2filmmakers.jpg" style="height:651px; width:462px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Giancarlo Esposito</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">You know his face.  He pops up in unexpected places in TV and film, always for the better. He’s also done a load of work in animation thanks to the emotion he conveys with his voice alone.  Still, Giancarlo Esposito most often finds himself a supporting player to bigger stars. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Don’t get me wrong, he’s excellent in utility roles, but he has the chops to carry a full load. The fact that his presence always makes projects better seems to argue that Hollywood casting agents are missing the boat. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Willem Dafoe</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Critically, Willem Dafoe gets noticed plenty. He has been nominated for four Oscars. It’s worth noting, however, that only one of those nominations – for 2018’s <em>At Eternity’s Gate</em> – has been for a leading role. And … he’s yet to win. What hurts most is that Dafoe’s consistently great work often remains unseen. For instance, almost nobody in America has watched <em>At Eternity’s Gate.</em> That picture made four times more money overseas than in the U.S. and <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt6938828/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">still only brought in $11.5 million worldwide</a>. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Before anyone starts weeping for Dafoe, we have to acknowledge that he’s landed a few blockbuster roles. He was the Green Goblin in a several <em>Spider-Man</em> films, and he was a lead in the 1994 Jack Ryan drama <em>Clear and Present Danger</em>. He also works consistently, which is more than a lot of actors can say. Even so, Dafoe seems underutilized. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/3filmmakers.jpg" style="height:366px; width:650px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Toni Collette</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">As happens with Hollywood actresses, Toni Collette has transitioned from hot property to B-lister. This has nothing to do with her talent. We can likely chalk it up to sexism, ageism and the fickle nature of pop culture. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Collette is – simply put – incredible in every role she touches. Zeena the Seer in <em>Nightmare Alley</em>? Check. Joni Thrombey in “Knives Out”? Yep. Annie in “Hereditary”? Uh huh. And those are just roles she’s played during the last four years. Collette was, arguably, at her career peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s when she starred in <em>The Sixth Sense, Changing Lanes, About a Boy</em> and <em>Little Miss Sunshine</em>. She doesn’t seem to be a first-call actress anymore. She should be.  </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>George Clooney</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">“Wait,” you say, “not long ago George Clooney was one of the most sought-after stars on Earth.” That’s a reasonable assessment. As an actor, Clooney’s recognition may have even exceeded his considerable talent. The problem is, he doesn’t get the same level of reverence when people start talking directors. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Clooney’s directorial debut, <em>Confessions of a Dangerous Mind</em> was one of the wackiest (and best) pictures of 2002. He followed that with <em>Good Night, and Good Luck</em>, an exceptional Edward R. Murrow biopic that is required viewing in my History of American Journalism course at <a href="https://www.csuchico.edu/index.shtml" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">California State University, Chico</a>.  It’s true that he has directed imperfect movies. <em>Leatherheads </em>(2008) and <em>The Monuments Men</em> (2014) have flaws, but so do pictures by Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Clint Eastwood, Ron Howard and Martin Scorsese. Yet Clooney doesn’t get the reverence that those directors do. I think that’s a shame. In 2020, Clooney directed and starred in the underrated apocalypse drama <em>The Midnight Sky</em>, and in 2021 he released <em>The Tender Bar</em>, a heartfelt coming-of-age story about a boy who grows up in the orbit of his uncle’s bar. Clooney may not be the best director of his generation, but there’s every indication he’ll be producing compelling work for years to come.   </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/4filmmakers.jpg" style="height:475px; width:650px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Wes Anderson</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Just as Terence Malick is revered in certain circles, writer-director Wes Anderson has a loyal following. It’s just too small. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">We’re talking about a man who – since 1996 – has given us Bottle Rocket, Rushmore, <em>The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Moonrise Kingdom and The Grand Budapest Hotel</em>. Yet his last feature – 2021’s <em>The French Dispatch</em> – <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt8847712/?ref_=bo_se_r_1" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">made less than $20 million in the United States</a>. That same year, <em>Venom: Let There be Carnage</em> drew more than $90 million its opening weekend. I have nothing against Marvel Comics movies, but really?</span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Patrick Stewart</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">See a pattern here? I clearly gravitate to artists who are known in the industry but haven’t received the opportunities they deserve. Stewart, who has played exceedingly challenging roles in theater, has largely been typecast on screen. Most know him as either Jean-Luc Picard from the <em>Star Trek</em> franchise or Professor Charles Xavier from the <em>X-Men</em> films. There’s no shame in that, as these are iconic roles that made him a hero to nerds worldwide. But he’s capable of so much that we haven’t seen on screen. Like Dafoe, Esposito and Collette, Stewart has had a successful career, but he deserves more high-profile projects that demonstrate his range.     </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Brad Bird</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">A glance at Brad Bird’s credits is all one needs.  </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">He first gained fame in animation, as a writer-director for <em>The Iron Giant</em> and <em>The Incredibles</em>. Then he made <em>Ratatouille</em>, another breakout animated hit. But Bird wasn’t satisfied as an animation legend. In 2011, he directed <em>Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol</em> and it was exceptional. Consider his behind-the-scenes and producing work on a host of other well-known projects, and it’s clear that Bird is among the most talented people working in film today. More movie buffs should know his name. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/5filmmakers.jpg" style="height:366px; width:650px" typeof="foaf:Image" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Kirsten Dunst </strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Outside of her time as Mary Jane Watson in Tobey Maguire’s <em>Spider-Man</em> films, Kirsten Dunst hasn’t exactly had an A-list career. Like the other actors mentioned here, she consistently works but hasn’t landed enough high-profile roles to match her talent. Hopefully her astounding turn in 2021’s <em>The Power of the Dog</em> will become a defining moment that changes her career trajectory. Dunst has proven herself capable of producing performances with remarkable emotional depth.  We deserve more of them. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Terrence Howard</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif">Don Cheadle replacing Terrence Howard as Rhodey in the <em>Iron Man</em> franchise seemed to be a turning point in the latter actor’s career. Back then, Howard was fresh off an Oscar nomination for the 2005 music drama <em>Hustle &amp; Flow</em>, and the sky seemed the limit. Since then, he’s made a lot of movies, but outside of his stint on the TV drama <em>Empire,</em> hasn’t captured the momentum he once had. The losers in all this are movie lovers because Howard is a wonderful actor with enough charisma to tackle more high-profile roles than he’s given. </span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Author Bio:</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><em><strong>Forrest Hartman,</strong></em><strong><em> </em></strong><strong>Highbrow Magazine’s</strong><em><strong> chief film critic, is a longtime entertainment journalist who teaches at the Department of </strong></em><a href="https://www.csuchico.edu/jour/" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank"><em><strong>Journalism &amp; Public Relations at California State University, Chico</strong></em></a><em><strong>. He is also the adviser to <a href="https://theorion.com/" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank" title="https://theorion.com/">The Orion</a> student news organization at Chico State.</strong></em></span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>For Highbrow Magazine</strong></span></span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong>Image Sources:</strong></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:18px"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman,Times,serif"><strong><em>--Daniel Benavides (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Giancarlo_Esposito#/media/File:Giancarlo_Esposito_SXSW_2017_(cropped).jpg" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">Wikimedia</a>, Creative Commons)</em></strong></span></span></p> <p> </p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/filmmaker" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">filmmaker</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/actors" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">actors</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/underrated-filmmakers" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">underrated filmmakers</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/terrence-howard" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">terrence howard</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/terence-malick" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">terence malick</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/toni-colette" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">toni colette</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/george-clooney" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">George Clooney</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/underrated-directors" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">underrated directors</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/brad-bird" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">brad bird</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/willem-defoe" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">willem defoe</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Forrest Hartman</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">In Slider</div></div></div> Sat, 15 Oct 2022 01:07:16 +0000 tara 11389 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/21724-salute-hollywood-s-underrated-filmmakers-and-actors#comments Welcome to the Wonderful, Wacky World of Wes Anderson https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/11079-welcome-wonderful-wacky-world-wes-anderson <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Fri, 12/04/2020 - 10:38</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1wesandersonbook.jpg?itok=KglMW97V"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/1wesandersonbook.jpg?itok=KglMW97V" width="420" height="480" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p>Sometimes, you can judge a book by its cover.</p> <p> </p> <p>Just in time for the holidays, the esteemed film writer Ian Nathan has released a beautifully illustrated and brilliantly packaged new book called <em>Wes Anderson: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work (Unofficial and Unauthorized)</em>. The book makes a bold declaration before you can pull the volume from its pink milkshake-colored slipcase, purporting to be the definitive reference for all Wes Anderson fans.</p> <p> </p> <p>One might wonder: is such a feat even possible? Anderson inspires a kind of rabid devotion that’s unparalleled among other filmmakers. Sure, there are staunch Tarantinoites, spacey Lynchists, devout Nolanians, and, of course, Paul Thomas Andersonians (does that blessed sect still exist, or did his last three efforts result in P.T.Atheists?).</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/2wesandersonbook.jpg" style="height:600px; width:525px" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Still, one is hard-pressed to think of a filmmaker who’s as absolutely singular as Wes Anderson, and even harder-pressed to think of a fanbase best described as completists. I’m not sure that a casual Wes Anderson fan exists. Once you twirl into his world, it’s easy to get lost there—drunk on his outlandish, affected aesthetics, dazzled by his constricted idiosyncrasy, baffled by his reinvention of what cinematic language can look like.</p> <p> </p> <p>I’m thrilled to report that Nathan just nails it. Both the form (Andersonian flowcharts, lists, an eight-page gatefold section) and content (summaries, analysis, insights, anecdotes) of this book are spectacularly definitive. The authorial feat of following through on the inconceivable ambition of creating the definitive Wes Anderson book cannot be understated. I approached it with reserve and some trepidation. In a sense, I suppose I was poised to be judgmental. But Nathan just knocks it flat out of the park.</p> <p> </p> <p>One example among so many: I had already made up my mind in advance that, if the author didn’t include, say, a thoughtful recounting of Anderson’s run-in with the film critic Pauline Kael, I would have to dismiss the whole thing as amateurish -- a cheap attempt to crunch together the multifaceted tendrils of a true auteur. Of course, Nathan doesn’t disappoint. The Kael meeting is recounted with class, sophistication, brevity, and, I have to say, it’s placed in precisely the right spot.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/3wesandersonbook.jpg" style="height:343px; width:600px" /></p> <p> </p> <p>What’s especially impressive is Nathan’s meticulous and engagingly balanced round-up of each film. He carries the reader from inception through production and response with meaningful insights along the way. One gem: “The genius of Anderson is how he outwits kitsch—something he achieves by leaning into pathos.” Well, yes—that is exactly right!</p> <p> </p> <p>It’s so satisfying to experience a deep dive from an Anderson obsessive who has a deep understanding of cinema and who also totally gets the filmmaker’s body of work. Nathan makes connections between films by drawing attention to subtle similarities (“<em>Moonrise Kingdom</em> was a return to the romantic impulses of <em>Rushmore</em>”) and dissolving enticing and assumed distinctions (<em>The Grand Budapest Hotel</em> is “tonally, perhaps, the closest relative” to <em>The French Dispatch</em>).</p> <p> </p> <p>Furthermore, experiencing the book (one doesn’t quite read it so much as swim in it) is like strolling through the distinctly-colored halls of Anderson’s imagination. It calls to mind the sensations of revisiting his filmography. </p> <p> </p> <p><em>Wes Anderson: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work</em> is an essential addition to the library of anyone who loves film. But if you know any Anderson fanatics, this volume should be thrust into their hands for mandatory reading. What a treasure, what a treat. Bravo.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/4wesanderson_john_rasimus_-_wikimedia.jpg" style="height:600px; width:400px" /></p> <p><strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p><strong><em>Christopher Karr is a contributing writer at</em> Highbrow Magazine.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>For Highbrow Magazine</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Image Sources:</strong></p> <p><em><strong>--John Rasimus (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wes_Anderson-20140206-85.jpg">Wikipedia</a>, Creative Commons)</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>--White Lion Publishing</strong></em></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson-iconic-filmmaker-and-his-work" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/film-books" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">film books</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/hollywood" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Hollywood</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/new-books" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">new books</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/filmmakers" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">filmmakers</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Christopher Karr</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Fri, 04 Dec 2020 15:38:12 +0000 tara 10031 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/11079-welcome-wonderful-wacky-world-wes-anderson#comments Golden Globes Countdown: 2014 Was a Great Year for Film https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/4555-golden-globes-countdown-was-great-year-film <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Fri, 01/09/2015 - 11:12</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/wildfilm.jpg?itok=QXYcTny_"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/wildfilm.jpg?itok=QXYcTny_" width="480" height="319" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p>As we march into the new year and prepare ourselves for upcoming awards shows, it’s appropriate to reflect on the best movies of 2014. As usual, the year produced sure bets from well-known auteurs and a strong crop of art-house darlings, but we also had terrific pictures emerge from the much-derided cinematic mainstream. In fact, a number of blockbusters cracked my top 10. Following is the cream of the 2014 movie crop, complete with notes on how you can see them.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>10) "Wild" (in theaters now)</strong></p> <p>During any other year, this wonderfully acted drama might have landed in my top five. Reese Witherspoon plays Cheryl Strayed, a real-life woman who confronted personal tragedy by hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. The film is based on Strayed’s book, “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail,” and screenwriter Nick Hornby and director Jean-Marc Vallée do a masterful job with the screen presentation. Witherspoon should receive a best actress Oscar nomination for her performance. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>9) “Big Hero 6” (in select theaters now)</strong></p> <p>“The LEGO Movie” is getting most of the love when it comes to 2014 animated films, but this picture – about a boy who becomes a hero with the help of a puffy, white robot – is a real treat. The plotting is brave and surprising, and the animation is gorgeous.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>8) “Chef” (on video)</strong></p> <p>Writer-director-actor Jon Favreau steps back from the world of blockbusters to deliver a charming movie about a celebrity chef (Favreau) who has lost touch with the important things in life. The film is funny and poignant, and it features outstanding performances by Favreau, John Leguizamo, Bobby Canavale and Emjay Anthony. </p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/theoryof.jpg" style="height:352px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>7) “The Theory of Everything” (in select theaters now)</strong></p> <p>The life of physicist Stephen Hawking is fascinating, and this movie focuses largely on his diagnosis with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and his relationship with his first wife, Jane. Eddie Redmayne is remarkable, playing Hawking at first as young and vital and later with increasing levels of disability. Felicity Jones is also terrific as Jane. Directed by James Marsh.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>6) “The Imitation Game” (in select theaters now)</strong></p> <p>A number of this year’s best movies focus on true stories, including this drama about mathematician Alan Turing’s battle to crack the Nazi enigma code. Benedict Cumberbatch, as Turing, continues his string of remarkable performances, and Keira Knightley is solid as a Turing collaborator. Director Morten Tyldum gets the period details just right and tells the story with an appropriate sense of urgency.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/2budapestfilm.jpg" style="height:416px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>5) “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (on video)</strong></p> <p>Writer-director Wes Anderson has one of the most recognizable styles in modern cinema, and it’s difficult to imagine anyone else making a film like “Grand Budapest Hotel.” The quirky picture uses an unusual narrative structure to tell the story of a remarkable concierge (Ralph Fiennes) working at a luxury hotel during a fictionalized time and place reminiscent of 1930s Austria. Anderson’s pacing and sense of humor are wonderful, and the art direction is fantastic.  Tony Revolori, F. Murray Abraham, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe and Jeff Goldblum also star.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4) “Whiplash” (in select theaters now, available on video Feb. 3)</strong></p> <p>Often, teachers are depicted as cinematic saints, but “Whiplash” reminds viewers that few things are as disheartening as an unsupportive instructor. The movie features Miles Teller as a young jazz drummer who wants to be the best in his field and J.K. Simmons as a tyrannical college bandleader who demands perfection from his players. It’s tough to warm to writer-director Damien Chazelle’s characters, but “Whiplash” has an unrelenting energy that demands that viewers take notice. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3) “Guardians of the Galaxy” (on video)</strong></p> <p>This Marvel Comics science fiction film was the top-grossing movie of 2014. While box office proceeds and quality are often at odds, “Guardians of the Galaxy” made its way to the top with a smart screenplay, strong performances and fantastic special effects.  Co-writer and director James Gunn (“Super”) infused the film with a perfect mix of comedy and action.  Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel and Bradley Cooper star.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2) “Fury” (in select theaters now, available on video Jan. 27)</strong></p> <p>Good war films are always dramatic, but they sometimes lack intimacy. With “Fury,” writer-director David Ayer solved that problem by focusing on a tight-knit tank crew fighting in Europe during the final days of World War II. Events play out from the perspective of Norman Ellison (Logan Lerman), a newcomer who joins the crew after one member is killed in combat. Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Michael Peña and Jon Bernthal also star.   </p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/apesfilm.jpg" style="height:330px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1) “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” (on video)</strong></p> <p>This sequel to 2011’s “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” is more dynamic, more exciting and more emotionally rewarding than its predecessor. The film starts by explaining that much of the human race has been wiped out by plague. In the meantime, Caesar, the ultra-intelligent ape from the first movie, has founded a colony of smart apes in the woods near San Francisco. When some of the remaining humans infringe on ape territory, the two species must learn to work together or descend into conflict.  Andy Serkis deserves an Oscar for his motion-capture portrayal of Caesar. The film, directed by Matt Reeves (“Let Me In,” “Cloverfield”), also features memorable performances by Jason Clarke, Keri Russell, Gary Oldman, Toby Kebbell and Kodi Smit-McPhee.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/selmafilm.jpg" style="height:388px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Runners Up (in alphabetical order)</strong></p> <p>Birdman (in select theaters now)</p> <p>Boyhood (on video)</p> <p>The Fault in Our Stars (on video)</p> <p>Foxcatcher (in select theaters now)</p> <p>Gone Girl (in select theaters now, available on video Jan. 13)</p> <p>The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (in theaters now)</p> <p>Interstellar (in select theaters now)</p> <p>Selma (in theaters Jan. 9)</p> <p>Unbroken (in theaters now)</p> <p>X-Men: Days of Future Past (on video)</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p><strong><em>Forrest Hartman, an independent film critic, is a contributing writer at </em>Highbrow Magazine.</strong></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/golden-globes" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Golden Globes</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wild" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wild</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/reese-witherspoon" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Reese Witherspoon</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/selma" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">selma</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/imitaion-game" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the imitaion game</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/theory-everything" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the theory of everything</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/grand-budapest-hotel" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">grand budapest hotel</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Forrest Hartman</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Fri, 09 Jan 2015 16:12:47 +0000 tara 5593 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/4555-golden-globes-countdown-was-great-year-film#comments ‘Grand Budapest Hotel,’ ‘Lego Movie’ Arrive on Home Video https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/4071-grand-budapest-hotel-lego-movie-arrive-home-video <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Tue, 06/17/2014 - 13:44</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/2budapestfilm.jpg?itok=hOcSRb_O"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/2budapestfilm.jpg?itok=hOcSRb_O" width="480" height="319" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p>It is a solid week for home video with new offerings ranging from a lightweight animated movie to the latest from visionary writer-director Wes Anderson. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The Grand Budapest Hotel</strong></p> <p><strong>3½ stars (out of four)<br /> Rated R for language, some sexual content and violence<br /> 20<sup>th</sup> Century Fox<br /> Available on: Blu-ray, DVD, digital download and on demand </strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Although there are many great writers and directors working in cinema today, few have voices as distinct and pleasurable as Wes Anderson’s. With films ranging from “Bottle Rocket” (1996) to “Moonrise Kingdom” (2012), Anderson has introduced moviegoers to unusual worlds, fantastical characters and bizarre settings that entertain while provoking thought. He is a manufacturer of fairytales for our modern age and, as such, his projects should be widely celebrated. With “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” Anderson delivers another curious tale and, as usual, the movie’s narrative is as creative as the story itself.</p> <p> </p> <p>Anderson tells his story in layers, leaving viewers to interpret point of view. The film begins with a young woman visiting the grave of a famous author who is never named. As she sits down to read his book, “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” his narrative voice takes over, and we meet him both as an older man (Tom Wilkinson) and a young buck (Jude Law).</p> <p> </p> <p>The book then plays out on screen, taking us to a past date when the young writer visited the Grand Budapest, a once-luxurious venue that had fallen into disrepair. During his stay, he was fortunate enough to meet Zero Moustafa (F. Murray Abraham), the wealthy owner of the facility. They dine together and Zero tells the writer how he came to own the once-fine establishment. This kicks off yet another narrative voice, so viewers are watching a movie that cleverly merges multiple perspectives.</p> <p> </p> <p>In what one might call the main storyline, Zero transports viewers to his youth, when he was a lobby boy in the hotel. At that time, the facility was one of the finest in the fictional, European country of Zubrowka. Although young Zero (Tony Revolori) has no experience in the hospitality business, the hotel’s excellent concierge, M. Gustave (Ralph Fiennes), takes him under his wing.</p> <p> </p> <p>In short order, Gustave has transformed Zero into both a competent hotel employee and a confidante, and the two share a great adventure. All stems from the fact that Gustave, who makes a practice of sleeping with elderly, female hotel guests, inherits a priceless painting from one of his “clients.” This goes over poorly with the woman’s heirs, and when it is discovered that the woman was murdered, things get seriously convoluted.  </p> <p> </p> <p>Anderson and co-writer Hugo Guinness, who based their screenplay on the works of Austrian writer Stefan Zweig, deliver a fantastical tale of murder, intrigue and sentimentality. Although the setting is fictionalized, it bares a strong resemblance to 1930s Austria, with Nazi-like war references throughout. Many of the things depicted on screen could never happen, meaning similarities to actual events are included more for comic value and perspective than social commentary. Nevertheless, the touchstone is appreciated.</p> <p> </p> <p>Anderson’s film is a meditation on the values of our collective past … and a fine one at that. It plays not only with narrative but with more technical aspects of the filmmaking process, including the mixing of color and black-and-white cinematography and frequently shifting aspect ratios. Anderson also uses snippets of stop-motion animation to give the picture a wonderful sense of whimsy. Everything from the art direction to the costuming is gorgeous, and every element works together to sweep viewers into the director’s fantasy world. </p> <p> </p> <p>Of course, Anderson gets significant help from his cast. Fiennes, Wilkinson, Law, Abraham and Revolori are fabulous, and they are joined by an impressive group of supporting players, including Adrian Brody, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Harvey Keitel, Edward Norton, Saoirse Ronan, Jason Schwartzman and Owen Wilson. Most of these actors are Anderson regulars, and they have no trouble contributing to the project’s unique and wonderful vision.</p> <p> </p> <p>Blu-ray and DVD extras include a stills gallery and numerous making-of features.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/legomovie.jpg" style="height:352px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The Lego Movie</strong></p> <p><strong>3 stars<br /> Rated PG for mild action and rude humor<br /> Warner Brothers<br /> Available on: Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, DVD, digital download and on demand</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>While the idea of a big-budget, feature-length movie inspired by building blocks seems odd, fans know that Lego has become more than a manufacturer of plastic bricks. The company has long been a player in the video game market, and it has produced a number of successful, direct-to-video films, all while maintaining a reputation for extreme creativity. “The Lego Movie” is the company’s most noteworthy media project, and it mostly succeeds.</p> <p> </p> <p>The story is centered in a universe populated by sentient Lego minifigures. Because the toy company has extensive licensing deals, the story includes appearances by Lego-ized versions of characters from a variety of familiar franchises, including “Harry Potter,” “Lord of the Rings” and “Star Wars.” Several D.C. Comics superheroes, most notably Batman, also play a role in the plotting. The hero, however, is a commonplace minifigure named Emmet Brickowski.</p> <p> </p> <p>Emmet, who is a construction worker by trade, has always lived his life by the rules. He loves the same TV show as everyone else, he rocks out to the same popular tune and he feels lost without an instruction manual. That makes him a stark contrast to his world’s master builders. These construction whizzes can assemble everything from spaceships to buildings in seconds, and they have no use for instructions.</p> <p> </p> <p>It therefore takes everyone by surprise when Emmet discovers the mysterious Piece of Resistance, thereby fulfilling a prophecy that he will become one of the Lego universe’s great heroes. Conveniently, his discovery comes just as the evil Lord Business is about to unleash a plot that will destroy life as the minifigures know it. </p> <p> </p> <p>The plotting is straightforward and directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (“Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs,” “21 Jump Street”) use the story as an excuse to introduce goofy, good-natured gags, most of which are solid. This, along with terrific computer animation, make the movie a pleasant and entertaining distraction. It also features a first-rate voice cast, including Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks, Morgan Freeman, Jonah Hill, Chris Pratt, Channing Tatum and Will Ferrell (who also makes a live-action appearance).</p> <p> </p> <p>Unfortunately, the lightweight plotting eventually undermines the feature, making it feel long, even though it barely cracks the 100-minute mark. Also, the 3D elements add nothing to the film, making the Blu-ray 3D an unnecessary upsell. These flaws aren’t so pronounced as to ruin the project, but they prevent “The Lego Movie” from entering the top tier of animated pictures.  </p> <p> </p> <p>Blu-ray and DVD extras include outtakes, deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes features, fan-made films and an audio commentary.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/joefilm.jpg" style="height:441px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Joe</strong></p> <p><strong>3 stars<br /> Rated R for violence, disturbing material, language and some strong sexual content<br /> Lionsgate<br /> Available on: Blu-ray, DVD and digital download</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>There was a point when Nicolas Cage seemed destined to lose the edge that made him great. Bland commercial projects, like “National Treasure,” “Ghost Rider” and “Season of the Witch,” dominated his filmography, and his great performances were sporadic.  </p> <p> </p> <p>Thankfully, Cage never abandoned his art, and he left us a few gems (“Adaptation,” “World Trade Center,” “Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans”) even during the lean years. With “Joe,” Cage seems to be making the point that no matter how commercial he becomes, he’ll always make room for the unusual roles that made him a star in the first place.  </p> <p> </p> <p>In the film, Cage plays Joe Ransom, a former convict trying to stay on the right side of the law despite bad circumstances and his own violent nature. Cage and director David Gordon Green make it clear that Joe is a good man in a bad situation, and that makes him an engaging and likable presence.   </p> <p> </p> <p>This is particularly true when Gary (Tye Sheridan), a teen boy, asks if he can join the crew of laborers that Joe is managing. Sensing that Gary is in need, Joe signs him up and introduces him to the rest of his roughneck crew. Their job is to poison trees so a lumber company can clear and replant the area. Although the work is sketchy, Gary is just happy to make some cash, and the fact that Joe cares about him is a welcome change. The boy isn’t so lucky at home because his mother is uninvolved and his father (the recently deceased Gary Poulter) is an abusive alcoholic.</p> <p> </p> <p>As the story of Joe’s relationship with Gary plays out, Green gives viewers a look at other aspects of the man’s life, none of which are pleasant. Joe is a regular at a seedy brothel, he has an ongoing feud with a local lowlife and law enforcement is always nudging him to stay in line. In this dark existence, Gary is a bright spot, and Joe becomes one of the young man’s fiercest allies, giving him not only a job but the tools to stand up against the cruelties of the world.</p> <p> </p> <p>Cage is fabulous in the lead role, and he gives Joe a sense of raw toughness that is so believable it’s saddening.  Although decades younger than Cage, Sheridan works capably with the veteran actor. The youngster was also solid in director Terrence Malick’s “The Tree of Life,” and he was a standout in the 2012 Matthew McConaughey drama “Mud.”</p> <p> </p> <p>Green has had an unusual directorial career, moving from the highly acclaimed dramas “George Washington” and “All the Real Girls” to the ill-conceived, low-brow comedies “Pineapple Express,” “Your Highness” and “The Sitter.”  “Joe” is his best work in years, and it is a reminder that he – like Cage – is capable of great things.</p> <p> </p> <p>Blu-ray and DVD extras include two making-of features, deleted scenes and an audio commentary.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/angelamovie.jpg" style="height:270px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>ALSO OUT THIS WEEK</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>The Angela Mao Ying Collection:</strong> Fans of martial arts movies should appreciate this Shout Factory release containing six movies with Angela Mao Ying. The included titles are “When Taekwondo Strikes” (1973), “The Tournament” (1974), “Stoner” (1974), “The Himalayan” (1976), “A Queen’s Ransom” (1976) and “Broken Oath” (1977). </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Ernest &amp; Celestine”:</strong> This French-Belgian movie received an Oscar nomination for best animated feature film at the most recent Academy Awards ceremony. Based on the children’s books of Gabrielle Vincent, the film focuses on a mouse who forms an unlikely friendship with one of her kind’s natural enemies: a bear. The home video release has an English-language dub featuring the voices of Paul Giamatti, Forest Whitaker, Lauren Bacall, William H. Macy and Jeffrey Wright. The original, French soundtrack is available as a bonus.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Walk of Shame”:</strong> Comedy starring Elizabeth Banks as a television reporter who may lose out on the job of her dreams when a one-night stand leaves her stranded in downtown L.A. James Marsden also stars. Written and directed by Steven Brill. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“House of Cards” – The Complete Second Season:</strong> Netflix is changing the way people watch TV by producing its own series and releasing multiple episodes simultaneously. “House of Cards,” a political drama about a ruthless democratic Congressman (Kevin Spacey), was the company’s first big TV success. This video release makes it possible for folks who don’t subscribe to Netflix to check out the acclaimed drama. Robin Wright, Kate Mara and Corey Stoll also star.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Picnic at Hanging Rock”:</strong> Director Peter Weir’s critically lauded, 1975 drama about a group of schoolgirls who disappear during a class picnic gets the deluxe treatment from the Criterion Collection. The movie features a remastered, high-definition digital transfer and a 5.1 soundtrack. Criterion’s release also includes Blu-ray and DVD versions of the film and a copy of the Joan Lindsay novel that inspired it.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Regular Show” – The Complete Third Season:</strong> This release contains 39 episodes of the animated show about the surreal adventures of two friends – a blue jay and a raccoon. The series has been an ongoing hit for Cartoon Network, and it is currently in its fifth season.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Judex”:</strong> Reissue of director Georges Franju’s 1963 crime film that begins with the kidnapping of a corrupt banker. Channing Pollock stars. Presented in French with English subtitles.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“Hearts and Minds”:</strong> The Criterion Collection delivers a restored transfer of director Peter Davis’ 1974 documentary about America’s involvement in the Vietnam War. The movie won the Oscar for best documentary feature in 1975.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“This is America Charlie Brown”:</strong> With Independence Day drawing near, Warner Brothers is rolling out this collection of eight Peanuts TV specials with patriotic themes. Included are “The Mayflower Voyagers,” “The Birth of the Constitution,” “The Building of the Transcontinental Railroad” and five more.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong> “No Clue”:</strong> Comedy about an advertising salesman (Leo Falloon) who poses as a private detective when a beautiful woman (Amy Smart) mistakenly comes to him in order to locate her missing brother. David Koechner also stars. Directed by Carl Bessai.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>“The Good Witch’s Gift”:</strong> In this third entry in the Hallmark Channel’s “Good Witch” series, Cassandra (Catherine Bell) prepares to wed her beloved Jake (Chris Potter), but a mystery from his past threatens their happiness.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p><em>Forrest Hartman, a contributing writer at</em> Highbrow Magazine<em>, is an independent film critic whose byline has appeared in some of the nation's largest publications. For more of his work visit <a href="http://www.ForrestHartman.com">www.ForrestHartman.com</a>. </em></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/grand-budapest-hotel" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">grand budapest hotel</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/ralp-fiennes" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ralp fiennes</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/joe" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">joe</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/lego-movie" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the lego movie</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/will-arnett" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Will Arnett</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/ernest-and-celstine" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ernest and celstine</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/new-dvds" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">new dvds</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/movies" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Movies</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/hollywood" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Hollywood</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Forrest Hartman</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Tue, 17 Jun 2014 17:44:47 +0000 tara 4856 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/4071-grand-budapest-hotel-lego-movie-arrive-home-video#comments Movies to Watch in 2014 https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/3452-movies-watch <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Thu, 02/20/2014 - 09:36</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/noah.jpg?itok=vk0_nI25"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/noah.jpg?itok=vk0_nI25" width="480" height="282" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p> </p> <p>Now that the awards season is almost over, with only the Academy Awards remaining, our attention turns toward the most eagerly awaited films of 2014. This past year focused on real-life stories, with stellar accomplishments like <em>12 Years a Slave</em>, <em>American Hustle</em>, <em>Wolf of Wall Street</em>, <em>The Butler</em>, and <em>Mandela</em>. However, 2014 is looking to both expand on and provide some counterpoint to this trend, with a new crop of fantasy, sci-fi, futuristic, and supernatural films, as well as historical fiction.</p> <p> </p> <p>As there are every year, a few standout films begin creating buzz long before they debut in theaters. They are touted as the “ones to watch” due to the possession of an all-star cast, their inspiration from a beloved prior work, or fantastic reviews and fanfare from critics. Below you’ll find a few of the films that have already garnered anticipation for their 2014 premieres.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Noah</em></strong></p> <p>In his first film since <em>Black Swan</em>, Darren Aronofsky takes on a project of massive proportions with <em>Noah</em>. Hoping to resurrect the Biblical epic in a mainstream movie, he plans to retell the famous story of Noah and the flood. With a budget clocking in at around $130 million as well as a cast of A-listers including Jennifer Connelly, Russell Crowe, Emma Watson, and Anthony Hopkins, <em>Noah </em>seems sure to bring in an audience, regardless of their religious views. The film isn’t strictly historical or realistic either, according to Emma Watson, who <a href="http://www.totalfilm.com/news/emma-watson-on-her-future-projects-video-interview">stated in an interview</a>, “It could be set sort of like a thousand years in the future or a thousand years in the past.” The film also features entirely computer-generated, fictitious animals, which Aronofsky <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/darren-aronofsky-paramount-spar-noah-648777">described to <em>The Hollywood Reporter</em></a> as the most complicated that the CGI production company Industrial Light &amp; Magic had ever created.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Gone Girl</em></strong></p> <p>This film adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s novel of the same name is sure to be a divisive film for viewers. When talking to <em>Entertainment Weekly</em>, Flynn <a href="http://wegotthiscovered.com/movies/gone-girl-film-adaptation-deviate-from-book/">said the film</a> would deviate from the novel, which is typical for film adaptations, but might not go over well for fans of the book. But fans should have faith in director David Fincher, who is no stranger to film adaptations of best-selling books (his resume includes <em>The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</em>). Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris, and Missi Pyle headline the cast who are sure to perform well in their portrayal of the gritty subject matter.<br />  </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/enemymovie.jpg" style="height:625px; width:459px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Enemy</em></strong></p> <p>This Canadian adaptation of the Jose Saramago novel <em>The Double </em>has developed a cult following since its screening at the 2013 Toronto Film Festival. The film tells the story of two seemingly identical men living very different lives, both played by Jake Gyllenhaal. While university professor Adam Bell exists in a routine of mundane life, his “double” is fledgling actor Anthony Clair. After seeing a film with Clair in it, Bell sets out to meet him. When they do meet, it becomes clear they aren’t just doppelgangers, they are truly doubles of the same person. The film spirals into a surreal world of who’s who and the origin of the doubles. If you’re a DirecTV subscriber you can catch it ahead of it’s March 14th theatrical release via their OnDemand offerings (more info through <a href="http://www.directstartv.com/">www.directstartv.com</a>).</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Maleficent</em></strong></p> <p>While the story of Maleficent originated in Disney’s famous <em>Sleeping Beauty</em>, this film isn’t going to come close to that kind of saccharine sweetness. Starring Angelina Jolie as the “Mistress of All Evil,” <em>Maleficent</em> tackles the tale of <em>Sleeping Beauty</em> from the villain's perspective. From <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pgmFAOgm5E">the trailer</a> alone, it’s obvious the film will be visually stunning, with cutting-edge computer generated effects and masterful prosthetics. While no reviews have been published yet, expect big box-office numbers similar to those of <em>Snow White</em>.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/budapesthotel.jpg" style="height:374px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>The Grand Budapest Hotel</em></strong></p> <p>This film from famed director Wes Anderson has already generated a slew of positive reviews praising its signature quirkiness and dedication to a lush visual experience. Like his previous films, Anderson stacked <em>The Grand Budapest Hotel</em> with big names, including Ralph Fiennes, Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Jude Law, Owen Wilson, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Saoirse Ronan, Adrien Brody, and Harvey Keitel. While his films aren’t to everyone's taste, if you’re an Anderson fan, this is not going to be one to miss. <a href="http://www.indiewire.com/article/review-wes-andersons-the-grand-budapest-hotel-is-a-delightful-action-comedy-as-only-he-could-make-it">IndieWire’s Eric Kohn declared that</a>, “With each beat exquisitely tied to Anderson's techniques, his zippy historical fairy tale (replete with hand-scrawled chapter headings) has a thoroughly immersive quality.”<br />  </p> <p><br /> <strong><em>Jersey</em></strong><strong><em> Boys</em></strong></p> <p>Based on the Tony Award winning musical of the same name, <em>Jersey Boys</em> tells the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from before their creation to the eventual breakup of the group. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this film is sure to be one of the most anticipated of the year, as the musical already has a large international fan base. While it doesn’t have a big name cast, expect it to make a star out of John Lloyd young. Young’s portrayal of Valli in the original Broadway production won him an array of awards and critical praise.  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Boyhood</em></strong></p> <p>Perhaps one of the most ambitious films to be made in recent memory,<em> Boyhood</em> took an astonishing 12 years to film and follows the lead actor from boyhood to adulthood. Writer/director Richard Linklater shot every few years out of the year starting in 2002 to capture the complexities of growing up in today’s world. Created as a series of 12 short films, <em>Boyhood</em> <a href="http://www.timeout.com/us/film/boyhood">was described</a> by <em>Time Out</em>’s Joshua Rothkopf as “unshakable, witty and deeply felt.” Watching lead actor Ellar Coltrane grow from a child to a man in the span of 163 minutes promises to be a moving and powerful experience for the audience.<br />  </p> <p><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mostwantedman.jpg" style="height:403px; width:625px" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>A Most Wanted Man</em></strong></p> <p>In what was, sadly, his last role, Phillip Seymour Hoffman portrays Günther Bachmann, a German intelligence agent on the hunt for an escaped Islamist terrorist he suspects German lawyer Annabel Richter (played by Rachel McAdams) is connected to. Based on the novel of the same name, <em>A Most Wanted Man</em> tells the true story of the wrongly accused terrorist Murat Kurnaz, who was detained and tortured at Guantanamo Bay. It sheds a hypercritical light on American policies and explores the dark side to our intelligence programs. A must-see for those interested in the espionage genre.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p><em>Kate Voss is a contributing writer at</em> Highbrow Magazine.</p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/2014-movies" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">2014 movies</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/budapest-hotel" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">budapest hotel</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/noah" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">noah</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/gone-girl" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">gone girl</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/enemy" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">enemy</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/jersey-boys" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">jersey boys</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/boyhood" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">boyhood</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/most-wanted-man" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">a most wanted man</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/hollywood" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Hollywood</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/oscars" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Oscars</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Kate Voss</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Thu, 20 Feb 2014 14:36:43 +0000 tara 4300 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/3452-movies-watch#comments Golden Globes 2013: Snubs, Surprises, and Spoilers https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1939-golden-globes-2013-snubs-surprises-and-spoilers <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Fri, 01/11/2013 - 11:16</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediumgoldenglobes2013.jpg?itok=aa4z2t_X"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediumgoldenglobes2013.jpg?itok=aa4z2t_X" width="480" height="338" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>  </p> <p> The format of the Golden Globes-- in which films, series, and their subsequent actors are split between two categories, drama and musical/comedy-- should make the annual awards show pretty much snub-proof. Of course, it doesn’t. Because what fun would that be?</p> <p>  </p> <p> Here are the most glaring snubs and biggest, jaw-dropping surprises of the 2013 Golden Globe nominations. This year’s list was all over the place, from the expected future Oscar contenders (<em>Argo, Les Miserables, Silver Linings Playbook</em>) to the movies and series that very few even bothered to see (<em>Salmon Fishing in the Yemen </em>and <em>Smash, </em>anyone?). Plus-- spoiler alert-- check out winner predictions, then form your own thoughts and judgments on who might take home the biggest prizes.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/argo.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Motion Picture-- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   ARGO</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   DJANGO UNCHAINED</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   LIFE OF PI</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   LINCOLN</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   ZERO DARK THIRTY</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actress- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Jessica Chastain- ZERO DARK THIRTY</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Marion Cotillard- RUST AND BONE</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Helen Mirren- HITCHCOCK</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Naomi Watts- THE IMPOSSIBLE</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Rachel Weisz- THE DEEP BLUE SEA</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/theimpossible.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 360px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actor- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Daniel Day-Lewis- LINCOLN</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Richard Gere- ARBITRAGE</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   John Hawkes- THE SESSIONS</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Joaquin Phoenix- THE MASTER</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Denzel Washington- FLIGHT</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumthemasterfilm.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 387px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Snubs: </strong>Some deserving films were left out of the drama category, but thankfully, many deserving actors were awarded their due. The few exceptions most definitely include Best Actress contender Quvenzhane` Wallis, the pint-sized wonder who enchanted in the emotional and profound <em>Beasts of the Southern Wild, </em>as well as Paul Thomas Anderson’s <em>The Master </em>for Best Picture. Perhaps the film was a bit beyond its time, or perhaps star Joaquin Phoenix’s flippant comments hurt <em>The Master’s </em>chances. Let’s hope it wasn’t the latter, because Phoenix gives a gut-wrenching, career-best performance in the film (and thankfully he was nominated for Best Actor.) Let’s also hope that the Oscars wise up and learn from the Globes’ mistake.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Surprises: </strong>Helen Mirren, Rachel Weisz, and Denzel Washington. All talented actors in their own right, but <em>Hitchock</em> was not well received, and both <em>The Deep Blue Sea </em>and <em>Flight </em>were little-seen. Richard Gere for <em>Arbitrage </em>was also a surprise, but of the good, well-deserved variety.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Spoilers: </strong>Fingers should be collectively crossed for Joaquin Phoenix, but the Globes will probably favor the far safer choice of actor: Daniel Day-Lewis for <em>Lincoln</em><em>. </em>The praise for Naomi Watts in <em>The Impossible</em> is slowly but steadily gaining steam, however, she’ll first have to knock out Best Actress frontrunner Jessica Chastain. As for Best Picture, this category is up in the air, as each nominated film has received its fair share of pre-awards buzz. Despite this, Ben Affleck’s comeback as a major force in directing has shown no signs of slowing. His political thriller <em>Argo</em> was both a critical and commercial hit, and could pull off a win in a very tight race.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediummoonrisekingdom_0.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 422px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Motion Picture-- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   LES MISERABLES</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   MOONRISE KINGDOM</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actress- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> - Emily Blunt- SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Judi Dench- THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Jennifer Lawrence- SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Maggie Smith- QUARTET</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Meryl Streep- HOPE SPRINGS</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/salmonfishing.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 423px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actor- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Jack Black- BERNIE</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Bradley Cooper- SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Hugh Jackman- LES MISERABLES</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Ewan McGregor- SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN</p> <p style="margin-left:7.35pt;"> -   Bill Murray- HYDE PARK ON HUDSON</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Snubs: </strong>In this year’s musical/comedy category, the Globes have reverted back to old Academy ways: nominating distinguished performers over popular stars. If Maggie Smith and Emily Blunt could earn nominations for <em>Quartet </em>and <em>Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, </em>respectively, then couldn’t Leslie Mann-- one of the best and most under-appreciated comedic actresses of her generation-- nab a spot for her role in <em>This is 40? </em></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Surprises: </strong>Again, <em>Salmon Fishing in the Yemen-- </em>did anyone else miss the boat on that one? Finding Jack Black’s name on the list for Best Actor was also a bit of a shocker, although it’s nice to see the funnyman recognized for new and challenging work.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Spoilers: </strong>Bradley Cooper went from suave movie star hunk to serious thespian in the blink of an eye thanks to<em> Silver Linings Playbook</em>. Regardless, the Best Actor statue should be Hugh Jackman’s to lose (the same goes for fellow Anne Hathaway in the Supporting category.) On the Best Actress front, Cooper’s charming young co-star Jennifer Lawrence should find that the odds are in her favor (sorry) and take home her very first big award. Overall, the people behind <em>Silver Linings Playbook </em>should have lots to celebrate come January 13. As much as Wes Anderson’s wild and whimsical sleeper hit <em>Moonrise Kingdom</em> may deserve the title of Best Picture, <em>Silver Linings </em>is starting to look like a sure thing-- as long as <em>Les Mis </em>doesn’t show up and spoil the fun.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumboardwalkempire_0.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 413px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Television Series-- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  BREAKING BAD</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  BOARDWALK EMPIRE</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  DOWNTON ABBEY: SEASON 2</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  HOMELAND</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  THE NEWSROOM</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actress-- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Connie Britton- NASHVILLE</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Glenn Close- DAMAGES</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Claire Danes- HOMELAND</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Michelle Dockery- DOWNTON ABBEY: SEASON 2</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Julianna Margulies- THE GOOD WIFE</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actor-- Drama</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Steve Buscemi- BOARDWALK EMPIRE</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Bryan Cranston- BREAKING BAD</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Jeff Daniels- THE NEWSROOM</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Jon Hamm- MAD MEN</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Damian Lewis- HOMELAND</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Snubs:</strong> So many snubs, so little time. What about <em>The Walking Dead</em>? <em>Game of Thrones</em>? And, most of all, <em>Mad Men</em>? Any one of these shows could have received a nomination. Further, of the many talented actors who were left out in the cold, Best Actress or Supporting Actress contender Christina Hendricks is the very worst offense. Losing the Emmy to Maggie Smith back in September was one thing, but this time, the growing under-appreciation of Hendricks’ work has simply gone too far. Hendricks has only become more impressive throughout each of <em>Mad Men’s </em>five seasons, and “The Other Woman”-- the episode which should have won her multiple awards this year, but hasn’t -- earned her rave reviews and near universal critical acclaim. What makes even less sense is that Hayden Panettiere managed to sneak into the Supporting category for her role as a teen pop princess in <em>Nashville</em><em>. </em>What will it take for Christina Hendricks to finally be awarded the recognition she deserves? Should she try bursting  into song?</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Surprises: </strong>Most definitely <em>The Newsroom</em>. Which isn’t to say that it’s not a well-done, promising new show-- it is-- but it should not have taken the place of <em>Mad Men</em>, a consistently great series which reached its creative peak this year.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Spoilers: </strong>It really isn’t spoiling much to say that <em>Homeland</em> is a lock; from praise by the President to <em>Saturday Night Live</em> parodies, it’s the show that’s been elevated to pop culture phenomenon status. Stars Claire Danes and Damian Lewis should also find themselves making acceptance speeches for the second year in a row, unless something goes terribly awry.</p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumdoncheadle.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Television Series-- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  THE BIG BANG THEORY</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  EPISODES</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  GIRLS</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  MODERN FAMILY</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  SMASH</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actress-- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Zooey Deschanel- NEW GIRL</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Julia Louis- Dreyfus- VEEP</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Lena Dunham- GIRLS</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Tina Fey- 30 ROCK</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Amy Poehler- PARKS AND RECREATION</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Best Actor-- Musical/Comedy</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Alec Baldwin- 30 ROCK</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Don Cheadle- HOUSE OF LIES</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Louis C.K.- LOUIE</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Matt LeBlanc- EPISODES</p> <p style="margin-left:14.35pt;"> -  Jim Parsons- THE BIG BANG THEORY</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Snubs: </strong><em>Louie, 30 Rock, Community, Parks and Recreation, </em>and <em>New Girl </em>are just some of the shows that could have been honored by the Globes, but weren’t.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Surprises: </strong>Matt LeBlanc for <em>Episodes, </em>as well as the show itself. LeBlanc won last year’s Globe, so it’s probably time to let someone else take over. Additionally, not one member of the talented cast of <em>Happy Endings-- </em>the funny and clever ensemble comedy that no one is watching-- found themselves nominated, despite much critical praise for the show’s third season. Damon Wayans, Jr and Eliza Coupe, in particular, could be the funniest TV couple currently on the small screen.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Spoilers: </strong>Musical/Comedy is the one area in which each category is a true toss-up. Hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler will go head-to-head in Best Actress, so count on either one to nab a statue (Poehler, especially, is long overdue.) Since <em>30 Rock </em>has aired its final season, Alec Baldwin could find himself going out on top, but only if cult favorite Louis C.K. doesn’t sneak out from behind him. Finally, for Best Series, truly anything could win-- as long as it’s not <em>Smash. </em></p> <p>  </p> <p> <em>The Golden Globe Awards air on Sunday, January 13 on NBC.</em></p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p> <em>Loren DiBlasi is a contributing writer </em>at Highbrow Magazine<em>.</em></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/golden-globes-0" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the golden globes</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/zero-dark-thirty" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">zero dark thirty</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/argo" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">argo</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/ben-affleck" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">ben affleck</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/jessica-chastain" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">jessica chastain</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/naomi-watts" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">naomi watts</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/impossible" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the impossible</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/ewan-mcgregor" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ewan McGregor</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/moonrise-kingdom" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Moonrise Kingdom</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/bill-murray" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Bill Murray</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/maggie-smith" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">maggie smith</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/best-exotic-marigold-hotel" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">the best exotic marigold hotel</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/golden-globe-awards" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Golden Globe awards</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Loren DiBlasi</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:16:57 +0000 tara 2182 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1939-golden-globes-2013-snubs-surprises-and-spoilers#comments ‘Moonrise Kingdom,’ ‘Chernobyl Diaries’ Arrive on DVD, Blu-ray https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1682-moonrise-kingdom-chernobyl-diaries-arrive-dvd-blu-ray <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Tue, 10/16/2012 - 14:22</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediummoonrisekingdom.jpg?itok=Oy2iEClk"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediummoonrisekingdom.jpg?itok=Oy2iEClk" width="480" height="338" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>  </p> <p> An Adam Sandler comedy and a sweet film by writer-director Wes Anderson anchor this week’s home video releases.  </p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Moonrise</strong><strong> Kingdom</strong></p> <p> <strong>3½ stars<br /> Rated PG-13 </strong></p> <p> <strong>Universal<br /> Available on: DVD, Blu-ray, digital download and on demand</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> In a commercial film industry increasingly dominated by derivative fare, writer-director Wes Anderson is a beacon of creativity and inspiration. Anderson established himself as a force with his first feature film, 1996’s “Bottle Rocket,” and his follow-up movies – including “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” and “Fantastic Mr. Fox” – have been equally unique and appealing.</p> <p>  </p> <p> His latest, “Moonrise Kingdom,” is set in 1965 and tells the quirky story of Sam (Jared Gilman) and Suzy (Kara Hayward), troubled 12-year-olds who run away together and hide in the countryside of a New England island. Their disappearance is first noticed when Sam – a Khaki Scout – fails to show up for breakfast, prompting his troop leader (Edward Norton) to call the only authority on the island, Police Captain Sharp (Bruce Willis). Before long, the tiny island community is buzzing with activity, and everyone from Sam’s fellow scouts to Suzy’s parents (Bill Murray and Frances McDormand) are searching for the missing kids.</p> <p>  </p> <p> The film is centered on runaway children, but Anderson never creates a sense of peril. In fact, as the story moves forward, it becomes apparent that Suzy and Sam are more capable than many of the adults trying to track them. Perhaps that’s the point. Adults tend to diminish the experiences of children, despite the fact that their innocence and inexperience often makes them more perceptive.</p> <p>  </p> <p> “Moonrise Kingdom” is beautiful to look at because Anderson has given his visuals a saturated glow reminiscent of films actually shot in the 1950s and ’60s, but it’s not just the cinematography that’s wonderful.  The characters have nuance and depth only seen in the best films, and Anderson’s cast is fantastic.</p> <p>  </p> <p> Willis is in top form as the island’s aging and somewhat dowdy lawman, and Edward Norton is brilliant as a man who treats his scout leader job as a calling. Murray and McDormand are always great, and there’s no exception here. One must also acknowledge the wonderful performances of the two young stars. Athough unknown, Hayward and Gilman carry the majority of the screen time and it’s easy to invest in their relationship.  </p> <p>  </p> <p> DVD and Blu-ray extras include a making-of feature and a set tour with Bill Murray.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/That%27s%20My%20Boy%20-%20Horizontal.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>That’s My Boy</strong></p> <p> <strong>2 stars (out of four)<br /> Rated R </strong></p> <p> <strong>Sony<br /> Available on: DVD and Blu-ray</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> Watching Adam Sandler movies is frustrating because they always contain at least a few reminders of what a talented comedian he can be. Although humorous, these instances are ultimately sad because they also remind us that Sandler has wasted a huge portion of his career making movies that simply don’t matter. </p> <p>  </p> <p> The latest addition is “That’s My Boy,” the unfunny story of a high school stud named Donny who knocks up one of his teachers and becomes a celebrity in the process. When teacher-student relationships occur in reality, lives are ruined, so one has to question screenwriter David Caspe’s judgment in attempting to mine the situation for comedy. Nevertheless, he charged forward, producing an awkward tale about the bonds between father and son.</p> <p>  </p> <p> After a brief explanation of Donny’s relationship with his teacher, director Sean Anders moves the action forward 28 years. The future Donny (Sandler) is older, broke and still incredibly reckless. In fact, he’s made such poor decisions, he’s about to be thrown in jail for owing $43,000 in delinquent taxes.</p> <p>  </p> <p> Desperate, Donny turns to Randall Morgan (Dan Patrick), a TV producer who specializes in celebrity gossip. Randall agrees to pay Donny $50,000 if he can convince his estranged son, Han Solo (Andy Samberg), to reunite with him on TV. Unfortunately for Donny, Han so despised his childhood that he disowned his parents, going as far as to change his name and tell friends that he was orphaned. Thus, there’s many an awkward moment when Donny shows up just days before Han’s impending wedding, trying to convince his son to join him on TV.</p> <p>  </p> <p> “That’s My Boy” has a number of problems, the most critical being that there’s nothing inherently funny about bad parenting. Therefore, most of the jokes about Han’s terrible childhood come out flat. Even worse is the fact that none of the characters, other than Han, have any boundaries. That means they are constantly spouting everything from profanities to racist comments. Apparently, this is meant to be funny, but it plays as wildly inappropriate instead.</p> <p>  </p> <p> DVD and Blu-ray extras include deleted scenes and a gag reel.  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/madagascar3.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 450px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Madagascar</strong><strong> 3: Europe’s Most Wanted</strong></p> <p> <strong>1 star<br /> Rated PG<br /> Paramount<br /> Available on: DVD, Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> Hollywood filmmakers should learn that it’s often best to leave well enough alone, and nothing proves this more readily than the “Madagascar” franchise. What started as an average-yet-enjoyable talking-animal enterprise has devolved into a redundant mess.</p> <p>  </p> <p> In “Madagascar 2,” the New York City zoo animals that populated the first movie attempted to return to the Big Apple, but ended up in Africa instead. That film not only failed to recreate the magic of the first, it moved slowly and dimmed the overall luster of the series. The even more unnecessary “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted” should assure that the franchise is little more than a footnote in animation history.</p> <p>  </p> <p> The film picks up with Alex the lion (voiced by Ben Stiller), Marty the zebra (Chris Rock), Gloria the hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith) and Melman the giraffe (David Schwimmer) still longing to return to New York. This desire convinces them to swim to Monte Carlo, where they plan to meet up with their militaristic penguin pals who have been industrious enough to build an airplane. Because lions and zebras aren’t typically seen on the streets of France, chaos breaks out and a cruel animal control officer (Frances McDormand) chases the entire crew. In an effort to escape, the animals join a travelling circus, where they meet a new cast of characters, including a jaguar named Gia (Jessica Chastain), a sea lion named Stefano (Martin Short) and a tiger named Vitaly (Bryan Cranston). Naturally, Alex and company wind up performing with the circus, discovering that zoos aren’t the only institutions allowing animals to wow a human crowd.</p> <p>  </p> <p> “Madagascar 3” is colorful and zippy, which may be enough for the youngest audiences. Unfortunately, it is little more than a variation on the previous two movies. The animals feel lost outside of New York and make plans to return, but they learn that different ways of life have much to offer. This isn’t a bad message, but it gets tiresome, particularly since returning directors Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath don’t seem interested in exploring it any more fully than they have in the past. The movie may also have suffered from too many people in charge. A third director, Conrad Vernon, joined Darnell and McGrath, but the film is no better for this.</p> <p>  </p> <p> “Madagascar 3” is not only superfluous, it’s one of the worst animated movies of 2012. </p> <p>  </p> <p> DVD and Blu-ray extras include deleted scenes, a mad music mash-up and a filmmakers’ audio commentary.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/chernobyldiaries.jpg" style="width: 399px; height: 600px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Chernobyl</strong><strong> Diaries</strong></p> <p> <strong>2 stars<br /> Rated R<br /> Warner Brothers<br /> Available on: DVD, Blu-ray and digital download</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> Oren Peli made a name for himself in 2007 by writing, directing and producing “Paranormal Activity,” a horror franchise that spawned three sequels. The success of that series also paved the way for him to tackle other work, including co-writing the script for “Chernobyl Diaries,” a horror enterprise set in Pripyat, a Ukrainian city that was abandoned following the 1986 disaster at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. </p> <p>  </p> <p> In the film, several young people opt for an “extreme tour” of Pripyat, curious about what the city – now a ghost town – will look like. Although Peli came up with the story and co-wrote the screenplay, it’s first-time director Bradley Parker who guides viewers through the action. He starts by introducing the main characters, the most important being Chris (Jesse McCartney); his girlfriend, Natalie (Olivia Dudley); their friend Amanda (Devin Kelley); and Chris’ brother, Paul (Jonathan Sadowski). In early scenes, viewers learn that Paul has a history of getting his younger brother into trouble. This makes it more than a little foreboding when Paul suggests visiting Pripyat in place of the Moscow trip that the group had planned.</p> <p>  </p> <p> Sure enough, the group ends up stranded in Pripyat when the tour guide, Uri (Dimitri Diatchenko), can’t get their van started. This means an overnight stay in the eerie city, setting the stage for horrific happenings.</p> <p>  </p> <p> The concept for “Chernobyl Diaries” is solid, but the execution is weak and passé. Like countless other horror films, it places its characters in obvious peril, then allows them to fall victim to increasingly terrible circumstances. The Pripyat setting is novel, but Parker could have filmed his movie by a rural lake or an urban shopping mall and used the same, tired structure.</p> <p>  </p> <p> What’s more, the characters are not fully developed, despite the fact that the first 15 minutes of the movie is designed primarily to do this. One gets the sense that Parker and Peli want us to understand these folks, but we never do because we don’t know enough about their lives.</p> <p>  </p> <p> DVD and Blu-ray extras include a “Chernobyl Conspiracy” viral video, a deleted scene and an alternate ending.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/obama2016movie.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 337px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>ALSO OUT THIS WEEK</strong></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“2016: Obama’s America”:</strong> This documentary film is based on “The Roots of Obama’s Rage,” a 2010 book by conservative writer and commentator Dinesh D’Souza. It paints President Barack Obama in a negative light by examining his past and arguing that the president’s background will lead to decisions that negatively impact America’s future. Written and directed by D’Souza and John Sullivan. </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“The Forgiveness of Blood”:</strong> Director Joshua Marston’s follow-up to the outstanding drama “Maria Full of Grace” is set in present-day Albania, and it tells the story of two siblings whose lives are irrevocably changed by their father’s blood feud with another family. Presented by the Criterion Collection in Albanian with English subtitles.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Neil Young Journeys”:</strong> Director Jonathan Demme’s documentary concert film looking at the life and music of Neil Young. The movie features an extensive interview with young, as well as a great deal of concert footage.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“The Firm” – The Complete Series:</strong> This TV series, meant as a sequel to John Grisham’s bestselling book, ran for only 22 episodes before getting cancelled. The story centers on Mitch McDeere (Josh Lucas), an attorney attempting to reclaim his life after spending a decade in the Federal Witness Protection Program for helping to end a corrupt law firm.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Looney Tunes Platinum Collection Volume 2”: </strong>Fifty digitally remastered animated shorts from Warner Brothers. The set includes pieces focused on classic characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck as well as lesser-known players like Cecil Turtle. Three of the shorts – “A Wild Hare,” “Tabasco Road” and “Mexicali Shmoes” – were nominated for Oscars.  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Avatar” on Blu-ray 3D:</strong> Consumers have been slow to adopt 3D technology in the home, but those who have both a 3D TV and 3D Blu-ray player should be excited to learn that James Cameron’s “Avatar” is now available in all its multi-dimensional glory.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Mad Men” – Season Five:</strong> Another batch of recent episodes from the Emmy-winning TV drama about the key players at a 1960s advertising agency. Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Christina Hendricks and January Jones star.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Psych” – The Complete Sixth Season:</strong> New episodes of this long-running USA Network detective drama won’t return until early next year, meaning fans have plenty of time to relive the 16 installments on this boxed set. The show focuses on Shawn Spencer (James Roday) a man who uses his keen observational skills to pretend to be a psychic and aid police in solving crimes. Dule Hill, Corbin Bernsen and Maggie Lawson also star.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Pete’s Dragon” – 35<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Edition Blu-ray:</strong> Disney is rolling this 1977 film, about a boy and his invisible dragon friend, to Blu-ray for the first time. Mickey Rooney, Helen Reddy, Sean Marshall, Red Buttons and Jim Dale star. Directed by Don Chaffey.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“The Cup”:</strong> Drama focused on jockey Damien Oliver’s dramatic 2002 win at the Melbourne Cup. Stephen Curry and Brendan Gleeson star. Directed by Simon Wincer.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Scary movies from Scream Factory:</strong> This sub-label of Shout! Factory is releasing two early ’80s horror films just in time for Halloween: “Terror Train” (1980) and “The Funhouse” (1981). The former stars Jamie Lee Curtis, and it centers on a killer targeting college kids who are partying on a train. Tobe Hooper (“The Texas Chain Saw Massacre”) directed the latter, and it is focused on teenagers stalked by a masked murderer in a carnival funhouse.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Blu-ray debuts from Miramax:</strong> Lionsgate is delivering the Blu-ray premieres of two films originally produced by Miramax: “Ella Enchanted” and “Everybody’s Fine.” The former is a family film starring Anne Hathaway as a young woman who has been placed under a spell. The latter features Robert De Niro as the widowed patriarch of a dysfunctional family.  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p> <em>Forrest Hartman, a</em> Highbrow Magazine <em>contributor, is an independent film critic whose byline has appeared in some of the nation's largest publications. For more of his work visit <a href="http://www.ForrestHartman.com">www.ForrestHartman.com</a>. </em></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/moonrise-kingdom" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Moonrise Kingdom</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/edward-norton" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">edward norton</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/bill-murray" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Bill Murray</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/thats-my-boy" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">that&#039;s my boy</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/adam-sandler" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Adam Sandler</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/madagascar-3" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">madagascar 3</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/chris-rock" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">chris rock</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/chernoby-diaries" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">chernoby diaries</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Forrest Hartman</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Tue, 16 Oct 2012 18:22:53 +0000 tara 1737 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1682-moonrise-kingdom-chernobyl-diaries-arrive-dvd-blu-ray#comments Welcome to the Poignant World of Filmmaker Wes Anderson https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1199-welcome-poignant-world-filmmaker-wes-anderson <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Wed, 05/30/2012 - 21:27</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/2mediumwesanderson%20%28festival-cannesDOTcom%29.jpg?itok=sMNidkNl"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/2mediumwesanderson%20%28festival-cannesDOTcom%29.jpg?itok=sMNidkNl" width="480" height="292" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>  </p> <p>  In a memorable scene from the 2007 film, <i>The Darjeeling Limited</i>, Angelica Houston’s character, Patricia, suggests to her estranged sons that “Maybe we could express ourselves more fully if we say it without words,” a line that neatly summarizes Wes Anderson’s success as a filmmaker.</p> <p> <o:p> </o:p></p> <p> The sparse dialogue in <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s films captures detachment and suppression – a part of all human relationships. Yet, his films also portray misfortunes and difficulties we encounter with those closest to us in a warm-hearted, positive light. His films manage to capture the joys of relationships, despite their challenging complexities. <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s success rides largely on his unique depiction of these two conflicting sides of human behavior -- our social tendencies and our hermetic ones. Though his films balance the line between comedy and tragedy, his work has an overall positive message about human nature. </p> <p> <o:p> </o:p></p> <p> <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s style is well-defined at this point. The cinematography, which includes plenty of slow-motion shots and still frames, furthers his peculiar spin on the way his characters interact with one another. Those who have grown fond of his distinct style will be satisfied with <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s latest release, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Moonrise</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype></i></st1:place>.</p> <p> <o:p>                                                                                    </o:p></p> <p> Critics often point to his reoccurring emphasis on idiosyncrasies as style over substance, calling it pretentious and glib. However, they fail to recognize that this is a deliberate inversion; of course <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city> has specific intentions with his films -- the non sequiturs in the dialogue are not just ironic and purposeless. They disguise the genuine, moral themes within the plot, and by doing so, enhance them. Whereas people in real life often make comments laced with irony, sarcasm, or cynicism intending to unmask conventionality and traditionalism, <st1:place w:st="on">Anderson</st1:place>’s characters say these things earnestly. In <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s universe, the irony is inverted. Within a traditional narrative form, it becomes morally instructive, dealing with themes about self-identity, love, family, and friendship.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumdarjeelingmovie.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 450px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Moonrise</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype></i></st1:place><i> </i>is a classic coming-of-age tale. It follows two young, disillusioned outsiders, Sam and Suzy. They both seek self-knowledge and a better grasp on their identities. Sam is a dissident in the tradition of Yossarian (from Joseph Heller’s classic, <i>Catch-22</i>). He runs away from the campground of the Khaki Scouts -- a boy scout troupe run efficiently by the stern but sensitive Scout Master Ward (played by Ed Norton). Besides the similarities between Sam and Yossarian as intelligent outsiders, the film does not delve into heavy satire of the Scouts, which does in fact resemble the paradox-ridden, military unit in <i>Catch-22</i>.</p> <p> <o:p> </o:p></p> <p> <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city> isn’t interested in the darker side brought about by existential isolation in the postwar Western world. Rather, his focus is on a general disillusionment from those closest to us in our lives: family, friends, acquaintances, co-workers, and the various people we encounter and interact with. Just like in his previous works, the filmmaker reminds us that these relationships are the foundation for curing the suffering caused by isolation.</p> <p> <o:p> </o:p></p> <p> In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Moonrise</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype></i></st1:place>, Sam has recently been disowned by his foster parents and is frequently cited as the least popular boy in his troupe. Suzy’s alienation stems from anger and disillusionment towards her parents that manifests itself in sporadic acts of violence. In <st1:place w:st="on">Anderson</st1:place>’s sleek style, the characters are likable and presented as more intelligent and creative than those around them. In response to a question from Sam about what she wants to do when she grows up, Suzy says that all she wants is to have adventures, and Sam concurs.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <o:p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediummoonrisekingdom.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 422px; " /></o:p></p> <p>  </p> <p> Like a good percentage of <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s fan base -- well-educated, upwardly mobile young people hoping to find fulfillment in their lives and to move beyond the conformity in a Western world that paradoxically seems to champion the idea of “the individual” -- Sam and Suzy suffer for being free-spirited and free-thinking. Through love, Suzy and Sam are comforted from the pains that stem from the process of forming their identities.</p> <p>            </p> <p> David Foster Wallace’s fiction often dealt with overcoming the traps of postmodern art and finding meaning beyond irony. In his well-known essay titled “E Unibus Pluram: Television and <st1:place w:st="on">U.S.</st1:place> fiction,” he explains the difficulty in balancing intelligent, hip, jaded self-awareness and actually having something meaningful to say. To some, <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s films may not escape the crippling chains of irony, but for younger generations that have consumed obscene amounts of cynicism through media, his films offer sincere, universal messages about the importance of establishing authentic relationships.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <o:p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumroyaltenenbaums.jpg" style="width: 443px; height: 616px; " /></o:p></p> <p>  </p> <p> In his most recent collection of essays titled, <i>Farther Away</i>, at the conclusion of an essay about his journey to an island in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Chile</st1:country-region> in the wake of his friend Wallace’s death, Jonathan Franzen laments about how “sick and crazy radical individualism really is.” This message about the importance of being able to experience authentic love, as opposed to an obsequious self-love, is increasingly relevant in a world becoming more flooded with impersonal technologies and media. Art that reminds of this, that provides us with self-aware but genuine humor, will therefore resonate.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <st1:city w:st="on">Anderson</st1:city>’s <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Moonrise</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype></i></st1:place><i> </i>fulfills this difficult standard, solidifying it as a memorable and worthwhile experience. At first glance, the film may appear to be more light-hearted and unassuming than some of <st1:place w:st="on">Anderson</st1:place>’s past existential explorations on screen. Despite the plot’s adolescent characters and PG-13 rating, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Moonrise</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype></i></st1:placename></st1:place> shows signs of being his most mature film to date.</p> <p> <o:p> </o:p></p> <p> <strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p> <i>J</i><em>ohn McGovern is a contributing writer at </em>Highbrow Magazine.</p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/filmmaker-wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">filmmaker Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/film-director" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">film director</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/movies" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Movies</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/moonrise-kingdom" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Moonrise Kingdom</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/royal-tenenbaums" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Royal Tenenbaums</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/darjeeling-limited" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Darjeeling Limited</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/ed-norton" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ed Norton</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/francis-mcdormand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Francis McDormand</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/bill-murray" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Bill Murray</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/bruce-willis" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Bruce Willis</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">John McGovern</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-photographer field-type-text field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Photographer:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">festival-cannes.com</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Thu, 31 May 2012 01:27:18 +0000 tara 1051 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1199-welcome-poignant-world-filmmaker-wes-anderson#comments Top Ten Comedies Every Highbrow Should Watch https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1137-top-ten-comedies-every-highbrow-should-watch <div class="field field-name-field-cat field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/film-tv" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Film &amp; TV</a></div></div></div><span class="submitted-by">Submitted by tara on Wed, 05/02/2012 - 21:05</span><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="og:image rdfs:seeAlso" resource="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediumducksoup_0.jpg?itok=R6R08Njm"><img typeof="foaf:Image" src="https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/mediumducksoup_0.jpg?itok=R6R08Njm" width="480" height="336" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>  </p> <p> Even the most highbrow of highbrows needs to relax and, on certain days when a retreat to the solarium in a favorite alpaca sweater while sipping on a red from the Bordeaux region simply doesn’t cut it, there is another outlet. The comedic offerings of film from across the ages to relax the wary mind burdened with the world’s problems.  The highbrow thinkers of  the world can indulge in film entertainment between solving global warming by using algorithms from a Harvard library window and discussing why James Joyce hated punctuation over tea at 4 o’clock Greenwich time.</p> <p> In that vein, the following is a list of comedies that are highbrow-worthy. Adam Sandler is nowhere to be found. Thus, the IQ of this list is up tenfold. Let us begin in no particular order…</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Duck Soup” (1933)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Leroy McCarey</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: The Marx Brothers (Groucho, Harpo, Zeppo, Chico)</strong></p> <p> While this movie often gets lauded as one of the great comedies of all time, it should be right up there with the big boys (<em>Citizen Kane, Gone with the Wind</em>) in consideration for the greatest movies of all time. The Marx Brothers ruthlessly and gleefully dissect the war-profiteering practices of War World I, what was to come in in War World II and beyond.  Whether it is Groucho Marx as the inept leader of Freedonia, Rufus T. Firefly in a boyscout uniform throwing out one-liners, or Harpo Marx’s silent antics in the much duplicated but never replicated mirror scene. This one hits on all levels of intelligence and entertainment.</p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Some Like it Hot” (1959)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Billy Wilder</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe</strong></p> <p> Sure, two guys meet one girl and she has to choose between them is formula as old as Gilgamesh and Enkidu. However, “Some Like it Hot” is much  funnier than a Sumerian ancient poem (hard to believe).  Lemmon’s and Curtis’ characters witness a mob murder. They go on the run and disguise themselves as female musicians. Hilarity and hijinks ensue as they try to remain in disguise and woo Marilyn Monroe’s character. While there may not be any deep social issues explored, even the most intellectual movie-watchers need to relax and enjoy great writing, comedic timing and slapstick action.</p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“The Jerk” (1979)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Carl Reiner</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, Jackie Mason</strong></p> <p> On one hand it is a commentary on race relations in the United States and socio-economic circumstances that lead to “success.” On the other hand, “The Jerk” is pure movie comedic perfection. From Steve Martin’s opening voice-over, “I grew-up a poor black child,” to Navin Johnson’s (Martin) exuberance at the arrival of the phonebook, director Carl Reiner and Martin never let this comedy slow down for the audience to realize how the film’s many conceits operate on a high level.</p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Ghostbusters” (1984)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Ivan Reitman</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Harold Ramis</strong></p> <p> There is something for everyone in this Ivan Reitman classic. Anti-government oversight? Then look no further than the Environmental Protection Agency’s deputy, Richard Peck’s pivotal role in allowing Gozar the Gozarian to cross dimensions and bring a giant marshmallow man to destroy New York City. Think the world of academia is filled with liberals who should be thrown to the curb? Then watch with mirth as the protagonist gets fired. No strong political leanings, just watch anyway for Bill Murray at his apex.   </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumobrother_0.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 375px; " /></p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“O’Brother Where Art Thou?” (2000)/”Raising Arizona” (1987)/”Big Lebowski” (1998)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: The Coen Brothers</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: John Goodman in all of them</strong></p> <p> When it comes to the Coen Brothers, why choose? Enjoy all of their smartest, deep thought-provoking and giggle-inciting works. Looking for a bluegrass musical based on an ancient Greek epic poem? Feel free to ponder George Clooney’s performance in “O’Brother Where Art Thou?” Want to explore the frustrations of child conception and necessity of family, then bask in the excellent performances of Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter as loving baby-snatchers in “Raising Arizona.” Finally, have a nightcap with a White Russian and the philosophical yarn-spinning of the Dude (Jeff Bridges) in “The Big Lebowski,” in which John Goodman’s Walter Sobchak refuses to roll on the Shabbos.  </p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Wes Anderson</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Luke Wilson, Ben Stiller, Gwyneth Paltrow, Owen Wilson </strong></p> <p> No one encapsulates melo-chic and hipster-dramatic better than Wes Anderson. Anderson’s trademark pangs of growing up and sweet sadness as childhood drifts further and further away are on display. Through this, Gene Hackman plays Royal Tenenbaum, the world’s greatest/worst father to perfection. Luke Wilson plays the Baumer, Owen Wilson writes a novel that supposes George Custard did live, and Gwyneth Paltrow is a secret smoker. Quirky and intelligent have so rarely been blended and been as satisfying.   </p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Private Benjamin” (1980)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Howard Zieff</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Goldie Hawn</strong></p> <p> “Private Benjamin” is both a commentary about the place of feminine independence amongst the military-industrial complex and a screwball comedic vehicle for Goldie Hawn. It shows that women can be empowered and as strong as men when given opportunities to find their strengths. Then again army life is tough and Goldie Hawn doesn’t let a comedic moment pass.  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumtradingplaces_0.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 338px; " /></p> <p> <strong>Trading Places (1983)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: John Landis</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Dan Aykroyd, Eddie Murphy, Jaimie Lee Curtis</strong></p> <p> Feeling good and looking good. “Trading Places” has it all - from drunken Santas, social engineering and the volatility of orange juice commodities. The plot of a one-dollar bet between two slightly racist finance tycoons allows Aykroyd and Murphy to portray two men out of their depths with verve and wit. As a bonus, this movie never needs to be rented since it is on all the time during the holiday season.</p> <p>  </p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>“Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” (1964)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Stanley Kurbrick</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Slim Pickens </strong></p> <p> Stanley Kubrick puts the irrationality of mutually assured destruction during the Cold War and how precarious life on the planet really was and still is in the hands of human beings center stage. Also the audience gets to fantasize about riding a nuclear bomb rodeo-style, the best of both worlds.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/mediumanniehall_2.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 322px; " /></p> <p> <strong>Annie Hall (1977)</strong></p> <p> <strong>Director: Woody Allen</strong></p> <p> <strong>Stars: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton</strong></p> <p> Is it even possible to have a highbrow movie discussion and not include Woody Allen? Probably not. “Annie Hall” may be Allen’s seminal work as a filmmaker as it examines the dichotomy of relationships between balancing love and individuality. The film and writing move between conscious and subconscious interactions of characters. Pithy lines and introspective commentary are exchanged. Highbrow status achieved.</p> <p>  </p> <p> The author’s sincerest apologies to “The Princess Bride,” Monty Python’s catalogue, “This is Spinal Tap,” “Caddy Shack,” “Spies Like Us” and” Ferris Buehler’s Day Off.” All funny and all smart movies, however, how fun is a list if there is not a cutoff? Feel free to lodge complaints below.</p> <p>  </p> <p> <strong>Author Bio:</strong></p> <p> <em>Kurt Thurber, </em>a Highbrow Magazine<em> contributing writer,  grew up in Caroline County, the only landlocked county on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. After matriculating through the public school system with no distinctive accomplishments whatsoever, he attended Mary Washington College, graduate school at Villanova University and completed a successful apprenticeship as a masked vigilante crime-fighter. He is ready for a highbrow discourse on any number of subjects. Did Han Solo shoot first? Heck and yes. What was MacGyver's first name? Angus. Can anyone put baby in a corner? Yes, Patrick Swayze from heaven. Read more of Kurt Thurber's musings at his blog <a href="http://www.historyguffaw.com/" target="_blank">www.historyguffaw.com</a>.</em></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/duck-soup" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Duck Soup</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/annie-hall" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Annie Hall</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/royal-tennenbaums" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">The Royal Tennenbaums</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/wes-anderson" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wes Anderson</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/woody-allen" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Woody Allen</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/marx-brothers" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Marx brothers</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/trading-places" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Trading Places</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/eddie-murphy" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Eddie Murphy</a></div><div class="field-item even" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/some-it-hot" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Some Like It Hot</a></div><div class="field-item odd" rel="dc:subject"><a href="/jack-lemmon" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Jack Lemmon</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Kurt Thurber</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-pop field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Popular:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">not popular</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-bot field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Bottom Slider:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Out Slider</div></div></div> Thu, 03 May 2012 01:05:12 +0000 tara 882 at https://www.highbrowmagazine.com https://www.highbrowmagazine.com/1137-top-ten-comedies-every-highbrow-should-watch#comments